Discussions on an agreement on geographical indications between the European Union and China have entered a new phase: their conclusion at the World Trade Organization's mini-ministerial conference in early November in Shanghai is now possible.
In their joint statement at the end of the EU-China Summit in April 2019, the parties promised to conclude this part of their bilateral negotiations before the end of the year (see EUROPE 12300/21, 12232/7), (EUROPE 12230/13).
Perhaps proof of the parties’ optimism, the frequency of meetings between negotiators is getting out of hand: with the last round of discussions, held on 22 and 23 October, barely concluded, a new meeting has already been confirmed for 1 November.
“We're not quite there yet”, admitted a source close to the talks on Friday 25 October. The text of the agreement is reportedly already finalised, ensuring protection of European geographical indications on the basis of Article 23 of the TRIPS Agreement.
The list of geographical indications now needs to be finalised, which is not the least of the tasks, and the discussions that will continue in the coming days with the Member States’ delegations will not be easy.
On the occasion of the WTO mini-ministerial conference, Phil Hogan, European Commissioner for Agriculture and commissioner-designate for Trade, will meet his Chinese counterparts to discuss the subject. This will provide an opportunity for a positive announcement for both sides, which would mark a small triumph for the EU while ensuring that Beijing has a certain degree of credibility in its European and even international commitments (see EUROPE 12355/14).
The Chinese market offers key opportunities for European agri-food products, due to the strong preference of Chinese consumers for these emblematic products.
In addition to the EU, 32 WTO members have been invited to Shanghai to discuss the reform of the organisation and to prepare for the next MC 12 ministerial meeting.
The United States has not yet confirmed its presence, according to one source. (Original version in French by Hermine Donceel)